Ask a Franciscan
‘Dresser of Sycamores’
Q. In Amos 7:14, at the king’s sanctuary in Bethel, the prophet verbally defends himself against the priest Amaziah by denying that he ever said he belonged to a company of prophets. Amos adds, “I am a herdsman and a dresser of sycamores.” What does that expression mean?
Pope Francis, Big Bang, Evolution
According to a news article, Pope Francis recently acknowledged the Big Bang theory and evolution. I was quite startled by comments I’ve heard about this story. I hope you can enlighten me on this matter.
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The Rift between Jews and Samaritans
I have been perplexed by the rift between Jews and Samaritans and their hatred mentioned in the New Testament.
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Is Scrupulosity a Sin?
Q. I'm having a difference of opinion with a friend who says that scrupulosity is a sin. I say it is not. What does the Catholic Church teach on this?
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Minimum Age for Readers at Mass?
Q. Is there a minimum age before someone can be designated as a reader at Mass? Must that person be confirmed? A. There is no minimum age, and having received the Sacrament of Confirmation is not a requirement. Carrying out this ...
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Why Did John the Baptist Baptize?
Q. During Advent we hear Gospel readings about John the Baptist and his ministry. This month we celebrate Jesus' Baptism by John. This, however, was not a Jewish practice, was it? Why was John baptizing in the first place?
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One-Hour Fast Before Communion
Q: Are we still expected to fast one hour before receiving Holy Communion? I have seen a woman chewing gum as she comes into Mass and is still chewing it as she stands in line to receive Holy Communion. I was ...
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